What are electrolytes?

[Robert Kazlauski]

I have read many messages from people who have sick chickens. Others tell them to give the chicks some electrolytes. What exactly is that? What is it supposed to do? How much to you give to chicks and also grown hens? How do you administer it? Where do you get it? Is it best to have some stored at your house, rather than trying to find some to buy while your chick/hen is sick? Lastly, what symptoms necessitate a dose of electrolytes? Sorry for all the questions, I am just trying to be proactive.

 

[BoundlessLove]

Electrolytes are used to ensure minerals balanced in the body. IE: In the summertime when temps are high, electrolytes in water help ward off dehydration. Basically just added to the waterers in extreme heat.
Or during sickness, added by dropper directly down the throat.

Here is a good thread with a homemade recipe:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/homemade-electrolyte.1668729/